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Health Regulations for Hajj 2016 (1437H) in Saudi Arabia

11 Jul 2016

The health regulations and recommendations for travellers to Saudi Arabia for Hajj pilgrimage in 2016, have been published by the Saudia Arabia Ministry of Health. Hajj is the largest annual pilgrimage in the world and occurs from the 8-13th day of the 12th month in the Islamic calendar. In 2016 Hajj will fall approximately between 9-14th September.

The Saudi Arabia MoH strongly recommends that elderly (above 65 years of age) and those with chronic diseases (e.g. heart disease, kidney disease, respiratory disease, diabetes), immune deficiency (congenital and acquired), malignancy and terminal illnesses, pregnant women and children (under 12 years) postpone the performance of Hajj and Umrah in 2016 for their own safety.

Pilgrims are advised to follow health guidelines to curb the spread of respiratory infections, including Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome Coronovirus (MERS-CoV), to prevent diarrhoeal disease, and minimise heat-related problems, amongst others. The Saudi Arabia MoH website includes useful health information and resources for pilgrims to this years Hajj.

It is strongly recommended that all pilgrims obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance (including repatriation) before travel.

Hajj and Umrah Vaccination Requirements (2016)

Meningococcal Meningitis

Adults and children over the age of 2 years arriving for the purpose of Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage (or for seasonal work in the Hajj area) are required to produce a certificate of vaccination with ACWY vaccine against meningitis. In the UK, visas will not be issued unless proof of vaccination, at least 10 days prior to the expected date of entry into Saudi Arabia, is submitted with the visa application.

There are certain other vaccinations which maybe recommended for personal protection, including hepatitis A, influenza and measles. In addition, the Saudi Arabia MoH has compulsory vaccination requirements for Hajj pilgrims entering from certain countries other than the UK, for example yellow fever and poliomyelitis.

Full details on recommended vaccines and malaria advice for travellers from the UK are on the fitfortravel Saudi Arabia country page.

Further details on Hajj requirements 2016 can be found on the fitfortravel Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimage Health Information page.

Leaflets and Posters

The leaflets and posters below have been produced to raise awareness of MERS–CoV. The poster may be displayed in GP surgeries, social clubs, mosques and other venues where they may be seen by those planning to go to Hajj or Umrah. They are available in English, Urdu and Farsi.

We have also produced a poster recommending that Hajj pilgrims prepare themselves for travel by visiting their GP 6-8 weeks before departure. This poster was produced in effort to help protect Hajj pilgrims, their family and the wider community from travel associated infections.